January 25, 2023

Waxahachie, TX - In an electrifying Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC) spectacle, the No. 25 Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU) Lions brought the Sheaffer Center in Waxahachie, Texas to life on Thursday evening, showcasing their basketball prowess against the formidable University of Science and Arts (USAO) Drovers. With the first half of conference play behind them, the Lions were on a mission to replicate their earlier success against USAO, having emerged victorious with an 86-83 win. The stakes were high, as the winner of this clash could solidify second place in the SAC, while the loser risked dropping as low as fifth place in the conference standings.
 

Lion Review
The game ignited with intensity as both sides collided physically in the paint. However, it was the Lions who sprinted out to a colossal 19-point lead in just six minutes. The first half witnessed a three-point barrage, with the Lions sinking eight shots from beyond the arc, each accompanied by a resounding pop from the home fans. Cortland Blake showcased extraordinary offensive prowess, connecting on all six of his first-half attempts.

Ball movement was fluid, and the Lions shared the rock with finesse, recording an impressive 15 first-half assists. Heading into halftime, Coach Delton Deal rallied his team with a 46-43 lead, urging them to maintain their toughness and unity.

The Lions and Drovers, both tied for second place in the conference, battled fiercely in the second half. Shot-making reached otherworldly heights, with both teams refusing to make the first offensive blunder. Justin Collins and Kylon Owens spearheaded the SAGU defense, showcasing scouting report discipline and heart that ignited roars from the crowd.

The SAGU basketball alumni, including Nyk Mason, Dereny Sims, Joshua Kasilla, and Joel Polius, provided the loudest support from behind the SAGU bench. JJ Boling and Noah Boling executed timely plays to navigate through USAO's full-court pressure.

Late-game heroics from CJ Hall, combined with a thunderous poster dunk from JJ Boling, sealed the Lions' victory at 104-96. The Lions displayed incredible accuracy from beyond the arc, shooting 15/30, and orchestrated a remarkable 30 assists as a team.

Key Stats

• CJ Hall led with 21 points.
• Cortland Blake dominated with a game-high 28 points and six rebounds.
• Alerick Hall recorded a game-high ten assists.
• Noah Boling added 11 points.
• JJ Boling contributed 16 points and six assists.
• Justin Collins scored 11 points.
• Kylon Owens anchored burly interior defense.
• Noah Jonker added five points.

Looking Ahead
With the thrilling win in their pockets, the SAGU Lions eagerly anticipate a conference rematch against cross-town rivals, the Texas Wesleyan University (TWU) Rams, scheduled for January 27th at 2:00 PM on the road in Fort Worth, Texas.

As a leading Christian university, SAGU educates and prepares individuals who want to serve Christ and others. SAGU helps students discover and develop their God-given callings in a Spirit-empowered, learning community. We believe in affordable tuition, made possible in part through the financial support of donors who embrace the mission of SAGU and the importance of affordable, accredited programs to train Christians for leadership in ministry, business, education, and service. Most majors are available in-person in Waxahachie, TX, and online through a wide range of associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.